Wow. Yesterday at this time I was almost in panic mode. I was furious (and still am) with MasterCard, and didn't know how I would pay my hotel bill or get out of this country. After much prayer and support from friends and family, I now have everything worked out. I have a flight to Kenya tomorrow, and from there will continue to battle with the credit card people. Thankful beyond words to everyone that reached out and let me know that I was in your thoughts and prayers! And for my wonderful family for helping me get through this. I don't know how people survive without a supportive family. Thank you everyone! (especially my papa!)
I am disappointed that I haven't gotten to see much of Rwanda. like I have said before it is very hilly and things are quite spread out, so I haven't been able to walk around very much of the town. The people are very warm and friendly, and I would have loved getting to know some of them better. I would also liked to have learned more about the genocide. You can do all the reading you want, but first hand accounts are always a bit more eye opening, and the politics of the situation don't always cover all the reasons a situation happens. Again you can't just stumble up to any old person, that's rude, the people are not here for my entertainment. Something that many tourists often forget!
Rwanda is one of the few places with gorillas! Unfortunately it is not possible for poor tourists to see them. There is a $500 permit to view them, then you have to hire a guide and pay a park fee. The $500 permit accounts for 90% of the foreign revenue that comes into the country, or at least that is what I read.
From the outside, this trip sounds like a failure. I didn't go south to malawi and zambia like I originally planned to do, and my trip was cut short in Rwanda. but I have to say it has been such an awesome experience. Traveling is so great, i was able to learn and experience all sorts of new things, and I feel so much better and confident for it. If I can navigate, and communicate well enough in east Africa, then I can do anything. There have been a few snafus along the way, but has only taught me to trust God and to have confidence in my ability to work through it. I am sad to see this journey ending, but I know there will be many others. Next I am thinking eastern Europe, or maybe southern Asia, anybody want to join me??:)
Again, thanks for all the support! I feel so blessed!
xox Suzanne
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I'm so happy that you are able to get back to Kenya, I was worried for you! I'm sorry about mastercard, that sucks. I hope it gets worked out soon with them! If I'm able to, it'd sure be fun to go on a trip with you someday... :) Who knows if my finances would allow it, but next time you plan one let me know!
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